Torquay's Winter Wonders: A Stroll Along the English Riviera
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Join us for a Winter’s day walk along the stunning English Riviera in Torquay! This traditional seaside town, known for its sandy beaches, bustling harbour, and iconic palm trees, is a top destination on Devon’s coast and remains lively even in the cooler months. We'll explore Torquay’s beautiful landscape, which has earned UNESCO Global Geopark status, recognizing its internationally significant geological features and commitment to conservation. As we walk, you’ll see firsthand why this area has gained such prestigious recognition.
Our walk begins outside Torquay railway station, where we’ll set out toward Cockington Country Park. This area offers a picturesque mix of formal gardens, oak woodlands, and open parkland. Cockington boasts three lovely ornamental lakes, a historic manor house with a craft center, an 11th-century church, and charming thatched cottages that feel like stepping back in time.
After exploring Cockington, we’ll return to the seafront, passing Livermead Sands and Corbyn Head, and then ascend Rock Walk above the Princess Theatre for sweeping views of the marina. From there, we’ll cross into Torquay town centre, climb to the Lincombe slopes, and make our way across the cliff tops overlooking Meadfoot Beach. Our route continues to Daddyhole Plain and Daddyhole Cove, where we’ll pass the historic lookout station before descending towards Torquay's marina/harbour near to the Imperial Hotel.
At this point we’ll take a break , with an option to relax at a local pub or café for refreshments. As the winter evenings bring an early sunset, we’ll make our way back to the railway station via a scenic, well-lit route along the seafront, passing via Torre Abbey.
This walk is a fantastic way to meet other members of the group while soaking up the beauty of Torquay in winter. We look forward to seeing you there!
DOGS: Well-trained and quiet dogs are more than welcome to join us, provided they remain under control. Authorities have placed signage in certain areas, clearly indicating where dogs must be leashed.
Don't waste that space: Bear in mind it's both new and existing members are excited to be getting out more. So please only book if you know you can make it. Should your plans change please free up the space immediately for someone else who could attend.
NEW MEMBERS: Please feel free to join this as your first Outdoor Lads event. If you have any questions, then feel free to message me or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an Outdoor Lads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
My other walks for 2024/5:
Watch this space
Photo Credits: All photos featured in this walk were captured by 'James H', who kindly granted permission for them to be published and to be used by ODL.
What to bring
Note that the kit list below is only a broad general guide and you will need to consider the weather forecast and specific conditions when deciding what to wear closer to the time.
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking. If the weather has been good then you may get away with good quality trainers but walking boots/shoes are recommended.
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Food & drink
We'll stop for a lunch break stop so be armed with your packed lunch, don't forget your snacks, and plenty of water to remain hydrated.